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Climate change extends Lyme tick’s life span

Abstract: While I advocate mandating extensive health coverage for those afflicted with Lyme disease, I also want to acknowledge one of the main reasons Lyme disease has become such a threatening issue on Cape Cod (“Time ticking on legislating treatment,” July 19, Page 1). The reason is climate change.Temperatures are rising, giving way to shorter winters and longer summers. This means the season for ticks is increasing and creating favorable conditions for their breeding and life span. Even more frightening is that Lyme disease is only one example of the many diseases and health conditions that thrive in warmer climates.With temperatures reaching record highs across the state and world, our environment and health are in jeopardy. As a state, we must stand in support of climate solutions like the Clean Power Plan and the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, which aim to reduce carbon pollution from power plants and promote clean energy sources. I hope our state takes the legislative steps to ensure Lyme patients have accessible and effective treatment care. More important, I want our government to take steps to combat the spread of this disease and others by acting on climate change.

Resource URL: http://www.capecodtimes.com/opinion/20160729/climate-change-extends-lyme-ticks-life-span